5 teams that could cause a stir at the Russia 2018 World Cup

- The 2018 FIFA World Cup is the 21st FIFA World Cup, a quadrennial international football tournament contested by the men's national teams

- From Iran to Iceland, Peru to Panama, meet the underdogs out to bite the big boys

The 2018 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and we gear up towards the opening game between Russia and Saudi Arabia.

By now, many persons have already chosen their favourite teams tipped to lift the trophy. Definitely either of Brazil, Germany, France, Argentina and Spain will be in the picks of many soccer fans and pundits.

However, there are a couple of promising teams at this year’s World Cup that could pull surprises at the tournament.

Sigurdsson will be the midfield maestro pulling the strings in the blue of Iceland in Russia. Source: Getty images

Drawn in Group D with Argentina, Nigeria and Croatia, the country faces an uphill task to qualify to the next round.

However, having done it against England two years ago, Iceland may just spring another surprise in Russia.

4. Egypt

Egypt’s chances at the World Cup have been downplayed by many since the draw for the tournament was made towards the end of last year.

The North African nation will also miss the services of Mohamed Salah for their opening game of the tournament against Uruguay, due to a shoulder injury picked up by the Liverpool star during the Champions League final.

However, the 26-year-old will be back for games against hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia. This is a fairly even group which the Pharaohs could fight their way through.

After 28 years of absence, Egypt in World Cup Russia 2018. Source: Saudi Gazette

Among the five African countries that qualified for the World Cup, Senegal and Nigeria have been tipped as the continent’s best hopes, however, Egypt could spring that surprise.

5. Sweden

Sweden qualified for the 2018 World Cup as one of the most impressive sides in Europe.

The country gained qualification in style despite the retirement of the talismanic Zlatan Ibrahimovic. And, in truth, Sweden are primed to surprise many in Russia.

Paired in Group F with Germany, South Korea and Mexico, the Europeans have a good chance of making progression.